The Kirkus Prize is one of the richest literary awards in the world, with a prize of $50,000 bestowed annually to authors of fiction, nonfiction and young readers’ literature. It was created to celebrate the 81 years of discerning, thoughtful criticism Kirkus Reviews has contributed to both the publishing industry and readers at large. Books that earned the Kirkus Star with publication dates between November 1, 2014, and October 31, 2015, are automatically nominated for the 2015 Kirkus Prize, and the winners will be selected on October 23, 2015, by an esteemed panel composed of nationally respected writers and highly regarded booksellers, librarians and Kirkus critics.

KIRKUS REVIEW

The prolific Stolarz (Blue is for Nightmares, 2003, etc.) here launches the new Touch series. Three months ago a handsome boy saved Camelia’s life; now he’s enrolled at her school, followed by rumors that he killed his girlfriend. As if that’s not excitement enough, Camelia seems to have attracted a secret admirer, and her lively first-person narrative is interrupted by passages from the perspective of this prospective suitor. Is it new boy Ben? Jock John? Ex-boyfriend Matt? Or even Camelia’s young boss at the pottery studio and shop? Whoever he is, he’s determined to win Camelia at any cost, and the tension ratchets up until the action-packed ending. Meanwhile, Ben reveals his ability to sense the future through touch, a power he only partially controls and which failed to save his ex. Camelia can’t help being drawn to Ben even when he warns her to stay away. CW-worthy dialogue, quirky secondary characters, romance and suspense: a winning combination. (Paranormal romance. 13 & up)

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